I would say you are lucky it started at all after leaving the lights on. So no, I don't think there is a problem with the electrical system. Did the lights-on reminder work OK? Yes, the coolant gets flushed out of the radiator and block. Just forget the whole hose thing. You get a long 1/2" drive ratchet with the appropriate socket (either a 17 or 19mm, can't remember), loosen the drain plug as fast as you can and run like hell........Gilly

so change the starter, everybody?
gilly, i want to drain the engine block the way like you said but i only have my car on two stands with me stuck underneath, i don't think i can move fast enough to avoid a faceful of coolant. how do you guys service your car? i am having such hard time putting the whole car on 4 stands.

Apprentice,
I would first change the battery. It seems like the battery is part of your problem. Also, this is an easier and least costly procedure if you're just working on trial-and-error.

This might clear up your problem. I would think that the Battery light would come on if there was a problem with the alternator, but I wouldn't rely on it 100%. Just change the battery first and see what happens. How old is the one you're currently using?

I also own a C220. It's built in Nov. 1994 and I'm not sure it should be called as 94 or 95 model. Well, it does not matter.

I agree with David's suggestion to replace your battery since the starter consumes much more current to crank the engine than light up the bulbs. Besides, if the battery can not provide stable voltage the ECU may get incorrent data from sensors then the engine may perform weird.

I have question about the famous faulty OVP part #. The current one one my car has part # 000 540 67 45. There is also a blue ink stamp number shows 051596, looks like it's date code but nor sure. It's made in Hungary!! I bought my car used last year, so I have no record whether the ex-owner has replaced it or not. I used to search partshop and it also shows the same part # 000 540 67 45. But your updated one is 000 540 52 45. Can anybody here help to clarify which one, 52 45 or 67 45, is the real updated.